VIVIENNE WESTWOOD DESIGNS THE FRIENDLY SKIES

Starting next year, VA’s female cabin crew will be wearing functional red suits with touches of Westwood’s signature whimsy. The jackets feature pleats in the bust, tailored darts and fitted waists. The skirts have accentuated curvature at the hip. The male crew will sport burgundy three-piece suits with grey shadowing under the lapels and at the pockets. Westwood will also design new cabin bags and accessories for the crew.

The uniforms will be produced using recycled fabrics and materials. The bags and accessories will be made the Kiberia slum of Nairobi, Kenya. Branson’s effort to bring income to the Kenyan slums is supported by the Ethical Africa Program and the International Trade Centre.

The uniforms will roll out for trial flights in July, and will be in full circulation after the new year.